This article is from page 8 of the 2006-03-28 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 8 JPG
A €50 million retail park for Ennis, which it’s claimed, will threaten retail businesses in the town centre, has been put on hold by a planning appeal.
A planning consultant, acting for residents opposed to the development, say their appeal is “exceptionally important” for the town.
Last month, Ennis Town Council gave Michael Lynch Ltd., the green light to develop the 17-acre park, to be located near St. Flannan’s College.
The Lynch company claim the proposal will create 250 jobs. The 15,000 square metre development will comprise of a superstore, seven retail warehouse units and a garden centre.
A retail impact assessment has concluded that the development would “not adversely affect the
viability and vitality of the exist ing Ennis town centre or the local economy”.
However, the residents, in an appeal drafted by planning consultant Brendan McGrath, claim that the proposal materially contravenes the Ennis and Environs Development Plan 2003.
They say it’s not in accordance with the proper planning and sustainable development of Ennis.
They emphasise that it goes against the vitality and viability of the town centre, its role and character, as well as accessibility to it.
They warn that the proposed development will have a serious effect on residential amenity.
“This is an exceptionally important planning appeal for Ennis. The outcome will have a significant effect on the character of the town for the foreseeable future,” the appeal states.
Mr McGrath concedes there is “undeniably a need for new retail development in the town, but . . . a retail park incorporating a superstore at the Clonroadmore site will weaken the town centre and will have a serious effect on residential amenity . . .
“In particular, the proposal does not support the long term strategy for Ennis town centre, will cause an adverse impact on the town centre, does not ensure a high standard of access by public transport and does not link effectively with the existing town centre.”
Mr McGrath also warns that the development will seriously damage
the prospect of creating a better lo cal road environment.
A decision is due on the appeal later in the year.